The House Theatre announces its 2018-19 season, including three world premieres

Shout Marketing and Media Relations

The House Theatre's 17th season of original work will begin in September.

The House Theatre's 17th season of original work will begin in September. (Shout Marketing and Media Relations)

KT HawbakerChicago Tribune

The House Theatre of Chicago has announced its lineup of 2018-19 shows, marking the company’s 17th season. Along with classics like “The Nutcracker,” there will be three world premieres.

“Borealis,” written by guest artist Bennett Fisher, is a dark comedy that follows Cozbi as she fights through the Arctic wilderness in search of her missing brother (Aug. 30—Oct. 21). It will feature company members Johnny Arena, Paige Hoffman, and Ben Hertel with work from Matthew Muniz and Lee Keenan. Monty Cole will direct.

Then, the House will bring back their annual “ballet-free” production of “The Nutcracker,” created by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O'Donnell and Tommy Rapley, with direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley (Nov. 8—Dec. 30).

The third production will be “Nova to Lodestar,” written and directed by Nathan Allen, with game design by Sandor Weisz (dates to be announced). “Set in the far future and at the far reaches of our solar system, audience players in Nova to Lodestar will execute a harrowing rescue mission,” reads a press release from the company. “16 crew members are split into two separate ships, one disabled, and one functional.” It’s up to audience members to keep their teammates safe.

A new adaptation of “Pinocchio” will play in the spring (March 28—May 19, 2019). Based on the works of Carlo Collodi, Joseph Steakley and Ben Lobpries penned the update and Chris Mathews will direct.

There continues to be an open run of “Magic Parlour,” now in its seventh year. Starring third generation magician Dennis Watkins, the hit show has 220 planned public performances at the Palmer House, 17 E. Monroe St.

Outside of Chicago, the House will bring the Jeff Award-winning “United Flight 232” to the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, Florida (May 4—19, 2019). It will be the ninth collaboration between the House and the Arsht.

All other productions will take place at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St.